The Silva Starter 1-2-3 is a baseplate compass designed for beginners learning to navigate with maps and orient direction. Its 2-inch by 3-inch baseplate includes inch and millimeter scales for plotting and mapwork, and the compact size fits in a pocket for everyday carry. A lanyard hole lets the compass hang around the neck for quick access in the field.
Built for Learning Navigation
The Silva Starter 1-2-3 is sized and scaled to make map reading approachable. The 2-inch by 3-inch baseplate gives enough surface area to lay across a folded map section while remaining small enough to pocket between uses. Inch and millimeter scales along the baseplate edges let a new navigator measure distances and plot routes without a separate ruler.
Ready to Carry, Ready to Use
The Silva Starter 1-2-3 compass includes a lanyard hole so it can be worn around the neck, keeping it within reach during hikes, orienteering courses, or field exercises. The pocket-sized footprint means it fits alongside other kit without adding bulk, and retrieval takes a single motion rather than a search through a pack.
Features
- 2" x 3" Baseplate: compact enough for pocket carry while providing a usable surface for mapwork
- Inch and Millimeter Scales: printed along the baseplate edges for distance measurement and route plotting
- Lanyard Hole: allows the compass to be worn around the neck for immediate access
- Beginner-Oriented Design: suited to learning basic map reading and direction finding
Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Silva |
| Baseplate Size | 2" x 3" |
| Scales | Inch and millimeter |
| Lanyard Hole | Yes |
| Weight | 0.11 lb |
| Country of Origin | China |
| SKU | RTC-432 |
Who This Is For and Isn't
The Silva Starter 1-2-3 suits beginners taking their first steps with map reading and orienteering: scouts, students, hikers new to land navigation, and anyone building foundational compass skills. The compact baseplate and included scales make it a practical tool for classroom or trail use.
This compass is not intended for advanced land navigation or professional expedition use where a full-featured orienteering or military-spec compass would be appropriate. Export is restricted: this item cannot be sold for use in some countries outside the United States.
Common Questions
What scales does the Silva Starter 1-2-3 compass include?
The Silva Starter 1-2-3 compass has both inch and millimeter scales printed along the edges of its 2-inch by 3-inch baseplate. These scales allow a navigator to measure map distances and plot routes directly on a map without needing a separate ruler.
How is the Silva Starter 1-2-3 carried in the field?
The Silva Starter 1-2-3 compass includes a lanyard hole so it can be worn around the neck for immediate access. The 2-inch by 3-inch baseplate is also compact enough to fit in a shirt or jacket pocket when the lanyard is not in use.
Is this compass suitable for a first-time map reader?
Yes. The Silva Starter 1-2-3 is designed specifically for beginners learning to work with maps and orient direction. Its straightforward baseplate layout, inch and millimeter scales, and compact size make it a practical starting point for scouts, students, and new hikers.
Are there any export restrictions on this compass?
The Silva Starter 1-2-3 compass is restricted for export and cannot be sold for use in some countries outside the United States. Contact us before ordering for international shipment to confirm whether your destination is eligible.